AV Processor Recommendations Requested - Replacing Lexicon MC-12B

fimillerny@mac.com -- Sat, 10/22/2011 - 17:10

I have a Lexicon MC-12B that I have loved. I am now upgrading to HDMI Plasma and LED/LCD TVs and am looking for an alternative that will give the sound quality that I have enjoyed but will support HDMI 1.4a. I am trying to be reasonable this time. The MC-12B was $10K and the new MP-21 has suggested retail of $14K which, in my view, is silly given the way technology moves forward. I would like to keep the price below $5K, if possible, but I am flexible if the processor supports firmware and modular upgrades to protect against obsolescence. Recommendations?

ArtMuscle -- Sat, 12/10/2011 - 18:34

I just purchased the Anthem AVM 50v about 3 weeks ago and love it. It lists for $5,500, but I paid $4,500 which is right about where you were pricing. It does incredible video processing and has 8 HDMI inputs and 2 out. I have one running to my Panasonic Elite Plasma (TH-65VX100U) and the other to my overhead projector (Epson PowerLite 8700UB) and the video is incredibly sharp. It does high quality 1080P upscaling and has 1080P/24 compatibility which works well with my Oppo 95. When I hooked it up I instantly loved the sound that came out of it, but once I ran the ARC I was totally amazed at how well it adjusted my system to my room, which is pretty hard acoustically. It has both unbalanced and balanced inputs and I can't imagine anything that you couldn't connect to this with all the jacks on the back panel. I'm presently using it with my Sunfire TGA-7400 Amp and they pair quite well. I think you would be happy with this unit and would have to spend double what this unit cost to find something better. If there is a place near you that you can preview this unit, I think you will find it worth your while. Good luck in your search.